Wrench with a workpiece locking mechanism

Abstract

A wrench may include a head, a drive shank for engaging a workpiece, a locking stopper operatively coupled to the drive shank, and a release button configured to control the operation of the locking stopper. The release button may be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking stopper locks the workpiece to the drive shank, and in the unlocked position, the stopper allows the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank. The wrench may further include a sliding locking member configured to slide along a second direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the sliding locking member may prevent movement of the release button, and in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member may disengage from the release button to allow the release button to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments generally relate to manual tool technology, and more particularly to coupling techniques for wrenches adapted to engage workpieces, such as sockets. Background Art

[0002] Wrenches (including ratchet wrenches) have the ability to connect drive shanks to various workpieces such as sockets or drill bits, providing a fairly flexible application. For example, the same ratchet wrench can be connected to many different sockets to allow the use of a single wrench when installing or removing variously sized fasteners. However, the detachable nature of such workpieces from the wrench creates a risk that the workpiece may inadvertently become separated from the wrench. In this regard, for example, if a user is working at height (e.g., on a ladder) or above a machine (e.g., above an automotive engine), an accidental and inadvertent separation of the workpiece from the wrench may cause the workpiece to fall from height and be lost, or fall into the machine and be difficult to retrieve. Accordingly, there is still a need for a new, safe, and effective mechanism to prevent workpieces, such as sockets, from becoming accidentally and inadvertently separated from a wrench. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to some exemplary embodiments, a ratchet wrench is provided. The ratchet wrench may include a head having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a drive shank extending from the bottom surface of the head. The drive shank may be shaped to engage a workpiece. The ratchet wrench may further include a ratchet mechanism disposed within a head cavity of the head and operatively coupled to the drive shank. Additionally, the ratchet mechanism may be configured to allow the drive shank to rotate relative to the head in a ratchet rotation direction and prevent the drive shank from rotating relative to the head in a drive rotation direction. The ratchet wrench may further include a locking stopper operatively coupled to the drive shank, and a release button disposed on the top surface of the head and configured to control the operation of the locking stopper. The release button may move in a first direction between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the locking stopper locks the workpiece to the drive shank, and in the unlocked position, the stopper allows the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank. The ratchet wrench may further include a sliding locking member configured to slide in a second direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In this regard, the second direction may be perpendicular to the first direction. Additionally, in the engaged position, the sliding locking member may engage the release button to prevent the release button from moving in the first direction from the locked position to the unlocked position, and in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member may disengage from the release button to allow the release button to move in the first direction to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0004] According to some exemplary embodiments, a wrench is provided. The wrench may include a head having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a drive shank extending from the bottom surface of the head. In this regard, the drive shank may be shaped to engage a workpiece. The wrench may further include a locking stopper operatively coupled to the drive shank, and a release button disposed on the top surface of the head and configured to control the operation of the locking stopper. The release button may move in a first linear direction between a locked position and an unlocked position, where in the locked position, the locking stopper locks the workpiece to the drive shank, and in the unlocked position, the stopper allows the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank. The wrench may further include a sliding locking member configured to slide along a second linear direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In this regard, in the engaged position, the sliding locking member may engage the release button to prevent the release button from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position in the first linear direction, and in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member may disengage from the release button to allow the release button to move in the first linear direction, thereby moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Some exemplary embodiments have been generally described, and now reference will be made to the drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, and in which:

[0006] Figure 1 A side view of a wrench according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0007] Figure 2 An exploded side view of a wrench according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0008] Figure 3A A top perspective view of a sliding locking member according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0009] Figure 3B A bottom perspective view of a sliding locking member according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0010] Figure 3C A fixed pin according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0011] Figure 4A A top view of a wrench with the sliding locking member in the engaged position according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0012] Figure 4B A side view of a wrench with the sliding locking member in the engaged position according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0013] Figure 4C An enlarged top view of the head of a wrench with the sliding locking member in the engaged position according to some exemplary embodiments is shown;

[0014] Figure 4D shows a cross-sectional view taken along A-A of selected components of a wrench including a sliding locking member in an engaged position in accordance with some exemplary embodiments; Figure 4C of;

[0015] Figure 5A shows a top view of a wrench with the sliding locking member in a disengaged position in accordance with some exemplary embodiments;

[0016] Figure 5B shows a side view of a wrench with the sliding locking member in a disengaged position in accordance with some exemplary embodiments;

[0017] Figure 5C shows a side view of a wrench with the sliding locking member in a disengaged position and the release button in an unlocked position in accordance with some exemplary embodiments;

[0018] Figure 5D shows an enlarged top view of the head of a wrench with the sliding locking member in a disengaged position and the release button in an unlocked position in accordance with some exemplary embodiments;

[0019] Figure 5E shows a cross-sectional view taken along B-B of selected components of a wrench including a sliding locking member in a disengaged position in accordance with some exemplary embodiments; and Figure 5D of;

[0020] Figures 6A to 6C provides an illustration of a two-step disengagement and unlocking process for the removal of a socket in accordance with some exemplary embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Some exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, exemplary embodiments are shown. In fact, the examples described and depicted herein should not be construed as limiting the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals always denote like elements. Additionally, as used herein, the term "or" should be construed as a logical operator that results in true whenever one or more of its operands are true. As used herein, operably coupled should be understood to involve either a direct or an indirect connection, in either case enabling the functional interconnection of components that are operably coupled to each other. As used herein, operably coupled should be understood to involve either a direct or an indirect connection, in either case enabling the functional interconnection of components that are operably coupled to each other.

[0022] According to various exemplary embodiments, a wrench such as a ratchet wrench is provided with a workpiece locking mechanism configured to prevent accidental separation of a workpiece from a drive shank of the wrench. As described above, the workpiece can be a socket, a drill bit, etc. that can be connected to the drive shank of the wrench to facilitate engagement of the wrench with various fasteners. In this regard, the workpiece locking mechanism can be configured to lock the workpiece to the drive shank such that the workpiece cannot be inadvertently removed from the drive shank by striking or otherwise directly applying a force to the workpiece. In this regard, according to some exemplary embodiments, the wrench can include a lockable stopper that can engage the workpiece and lock the workpiece to the drive shank. According to some exemplary embodiments, the workpiece can include a locking feature, such as an internal groove, that can engage a locking member of the lockable stopper extending away from the drive shank to lock the workpiece to the drive shank.

[0023] To release the workpiece from the drive shank of the wrench, the user may need to perform a two-step action or two-movement action on the wrench. In this regard, according to some exemplary embodiments, the wrench can include a release button that can be depressed to control the lockable stopper. The release button is operable to release the locking member from the workpiece to allow the workpiece to separate from the wrench, and the locking member can be a component of the lockable stopper. In this regard, the release button can be actuated between a locked position where the locking member is in locking engagement with the workpiece and an unlocked position where the locking member can be disengaged from the workpiece and separated from the wrench. Actuation of the release button can occur along a linear path in a locking direction.

[0024] Additionally, the wrench can include a sliding locking member that selectively engages the release button to affect the movement ability of the release button. In this regard, the sliding locking member can move between an engaged position and a disengaged position along an engagement direction, in the engaged position, the sliding locking member engages the release button, and in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member does not engage the release button. Thus, when the sliding locking member engages the release button, movement of the release button to the unlocked position can be prevented, and when the sliding locking member is in the disengaged position, movement of the release button to the unlocked position can be allowed.

[0025] According to some exemplary embodiments, in order to separate a workpiece from the drive shank of a wrench, it may be required that the user first move a sliding locking member from an engaged position to a disengaged position along a first (engagement) direction, as a first step or first movement, which may be a linear movement. Subsequently, while the sliding locking member remains in the disengaged position, it may be required that the user press a release button to move the release button from a locked position to an unlocked position along a second (locking) direction, which may also be a linear movement and may be perpendicular to the movement of the sliding locking member. When the release button is moved to the unlocked position (since the sliding locking member is in the disengaged position and no longer obstructs or blocks), the locking member may be allowed to disengage from the workpiece to permit separation of the workpiece from the drive shank.

[0026] According to some exemplary embodiments, the two-step operation or two-movement operation performed by the user to separate the workpiece from the wrench may require linear movement of the user in different directions (e.g., in a perpendicular direction). Such sequential movement is highly unlikely to occur inadvertently. Thus, by requiring the user to perform a two-step operation or two-movement operation to unlock the workpiece, it is highly unlikely that the workpiece will accidentally separate from the wrench when the user does not intend to remove the workpiece from the wrench. Accordingly, according to some exemplary embodiments, the cooperative operation of the sliding locking member and the release button may provide a reliable and effective method for controlling the removal or separation of a workpiece, such as a socket or a drill bit, from the drive shank of a wrench.

[0027] After having described some aspects of some exemplary embodiments in general terms, Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment in the form of an exemplary ratchet wrench 10 is provided. Although the exemplary embodiment may be described with respect to the ratchet wrench 10, it should be understood that some exemplary embodiments may be applicable to, for example, other non-ratchet wrenches. In this regard, the wrench 10 may be configured to perform a ratchet movement in a first rotational direction about an axis 205 or apply a torque to a fastener (e.g., a bolt, a nut, etc.) in an opposite second rotational direction based on the position of a reversing lever 25 of the wrench and the rotational direction applied by the user. Thus, the wrench 10 may be configured to allow the user to apply a torque to the fastener in a clockwise or counterclockwise manner and be capable of performing a ratchet movement in an opposite rotational direction based on the position of the reversing lever 25, which controls the positioning of other components of the wrench 10 including the ratchet mechanism of the wrench 10 to support such functionality. Due to the ratchet feature, the wrench 10 may be particularly useful in restricted areas with limited movement by reducing or eliminating the need to reposition the wrench 10 on the fastener during a tightening or loosening operation.

[0028] In this regard, Figure 1Disclosed is a wrench 10 according to some exemplary embodiments, which includes a handle 15 and a head 20. The head 20 can be disposed on the front portion of the wrench 10. The handle 15 can longitudinally extend away from the head 20 in a backward direction to provide both the handle and a length from the axis of rotation 205 of the wrench 10 to generate a wrench leverage for a user. According to some exemplary embodiments, the handle 15 can be of a generally cylindrical shape. The head 20 can have a top surface 200 and a bottom surface 210 for position reference, where the top surface 200 is opposite to the bottom surface 210, and the axis of rotation 205 passes through the top surface 200 and the bottom surface 210. The head 20 can widen in width as the head 20 extends away from the handle 15, and the head 20 can have a generally elliptical or oval shape. Inside the head 20, the wrench 10 can include a reversing ratchet mechanism as further described below, which is disposed in a head cavity within the head 20. Various components of the wrench 10 can be formed or cast from metal (such as steel or stainless steel).

[0029] Additionally, the head 20 can include a drive shank 110 extending from the bottom surface 210. The drive shank 110 can be configured to be coupled to a workpiece, such as a socket, a drill bit, etc. In this regard, the drive shank 110 can be shaped to be received, for example, in a cavity of the workpiece. According to some exemplary embodiments, the drive shank 110 has a square cross-sectional shape. The drive shank 110 can be coupled to the ratchet mechanism such that the drive shank 110 is configured to ratchet in a first rotational direction relative to the head 20 and apply a torque that moves together with the head 20 in a second rotational direction. As further described below, the drive shank 110 can have an inner cavity that houses a locking member 115, which can be a locking bearing. The locking member 115 can operate as a component of a lockable stopper 116 together with a locking member opening 112 in the drive shank 110. The locking member 115 can be configured to engage with the workpiece to lock the workpiece to the drive shank 110 and the wrench 10.

[0030] In this regard, the wrench 10 may further include a release button 100 disposed on the top surface 200. According to some exemplary embodiments, the release button 100 may be movable or pressable into the top surface 200 of the wrench 10. The release button 100 may be operable to control the locking mechanism and, more specifically, to control a locking stopper 116 for locking a workpiece to the drive shank 110 via a locking member 115, as further described below. Briefly, when the release button 100 is not actuated, the release button 100 may default to a locked position in which the locking member 115 remains in an extended position and, if a workpiece is mounted on the drive shank 110, the locking member 115 will engage the workpiece. However, the release button 100 may be depressed such that the release button 100 moves in a direction along or parallel to the rotational axis 205 and into an unlocked position. When the release button 100 is set in the unlocked position, the locking member 115 may be allowed to move, for example, into a cavity in the drive shank 110, thereby allowing the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank 110.

[0031] According to some exemplary embodiments, the wrench 10 may include a sliding locking member 120 that cooperates with the release button 100 to prevent inadvertent release or detachment of the workpiece from the drive shank 110. In this regard, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding locking member 120 may be disposed on the top surface 200 of the wrench 10. Similar to the release button 100, the sliding locking member 120 may be a movable component. The sliding locking member 120 may move linearly on the top surface 200 of the wrench 10 between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the sliding locking member 120 may physically contact the release button 100 to prevent the release button 100 from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. Additionally, in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member 120 may be disengaged from the release button 100 and the release button 100 may be allowed to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0032] Some of the external components of the wrench 10 have been described. According to some exemplary embodiments, Figure 2Disclosed is an exploded view of various exemplary components of a wrench 10. In this regard, the wrench 10 may include a cover 33 that operates to hold various components within a head cavity 37 of the head 20 and also protects the internal components of the wrench 10 from dust and debris. Thus, the cover 33 may be held in its position by a locking ring 34 that may be temporarily deformed to facilitate installation in a channel within the cavity 37 of the head 20 to hold the cover 33 on or near the bottom surface 210 of the head 20. The cover 33 may include an opening through which a drive shank 110 may pass and extend outwardly away from the head 20. As described above and further described below, a workpiece may be locked to the drive shank 110 by a lockable stopper 116. The lockable stopper 116 may lock the workpiece to the drive shank 110 by interaction with a locking member 115. In this regard, the drive shank 110 may have a locking member opening 112 in one of the surfaces of the drive shank 110. The locking member opening 112 may lead into a drive shank cavity 111. The locking member 115 may be disposed within the drive shank cavity 111 and may, in some cases, extend out of the locking member opening 112. However, according to some exemplary embodiments, the locking member 115 may be too large to pass through the locking member opening 112 but may still, in some cases, partially extend out of the locking member opening 112.

[0033] The drive shank 110 may be coupled or integrated with a gear 30 that includes ratchet teeth surrounding the body of the gear 30 on an outer circumferential surface of the gear 30. The gear 30 may have a plurality of gear teeth 104 disposed around a circumference of the gear 103 and the drive shank 110 may be axially disposed on a base of the gear. In this regard, the gear 30 may have a circular shape that is elongated into a cylindrical shape to increase a surface area of engagement of the teeth for engagement with teeth of a pawl 29, which facilitates ratcheting operation of the wrench 10. To facilitate rotation of the gear 30 relative to the cover 33, a washer 32 may be included therebetween. Additionally, to facilitate rotation of the gear 30 relative to an inner upper surface of the head cavity 37, a washer 31 may be included therebetween.

[0034] As described above, the pawl 29 may have teeth configured to engage the teeth of the gear 30 to facilitate the ratcheting function of the wrench 10, and thus include components of the ratchet mechanism 117 of the wrench 10. The pawl 29 may be disposed in the cavity 37 of the head 20. The pawl 29 may be configured to move within the cavity 37 to allow for a change in the ratcheting direction of the wrench 10. In this regard, the reversing lever 25 may be configured to control the movement of the pawl 29 within the head 20 and thereby control the ratcheting direction of the wrench 10. The reversing lever 25 may be disposed in the opening 38 in the head 20 and may engage the pawl 29 through the bar 27, and the bar applies a force on the pawl 29 through the spring 26 disposed between the body portion of the reversing lever 25 and the bar 27. Additionally, in order to hold the reversing lever 25 in the first position (e.g., clockwise ratchet) or the second position (e.g., counterclockwise ratchet), the bar 23 may engage the body portion of the reversing lever 25. A biasing force may be applied to the body portion of the reversing lever 25 through the spring 24 disposed between the inner surface of the cavity 37 and the bar 23, which causes the reversing lever 25 to "snap" into one of the first position or the second position when the reversing lever 25 pivots. To facilitate the rotation of the reversing lever 25 relative to the top surface 200 of the head 20, a washer 28 may be disposed therebetween.

[0035] The wrench 10 may further include a release button 100 that may be coupled or integrated with the post 102. The post 102 may extend through the top opening in the cavity 37 in the head 20 and form part of a lockable stopper. The post 102 may extend from the bottom side of the release button 100 and may be disposed within the drive shank cavity 111 together with the locking member 115. As described further below, the post 102 may include features operable to control the movement of the locking member 115 in response to the movement of the release button 100 between the locked position and the unlocked position. To hold the release button 100 in a position extending above the top surface 200 of the head 20, the release button spring 104 may push the release button 100 into the extended unlocked position. The release button spring 104 may be disposed within the drive shank cavity 111 and may be compressed between a flange within the drive shank cavity 111 and the lower spring lip of the release button 100.

[0036] According to some exemplary embodiments, a sliding locking member 120 and associated components may be disposed on the top surface 200 of the head 20. The sliding locking member 210 may be fixed to the top surface 200 of the head 20 by a fixing pin 130. The fixing pin 130 may pass through the fixing pin opening in the sliding locking member 120 and be fixed (e.g., tightened) into the pin hole 131 on the top surface 200 of the head 20. The fixing pin 130 may have a head that may engage the upper surface of the sliding locking member 120 to hold the sliding locking member 120 on the top surface 200 of the head 20. Additionally, the guiding protrusion 132 may extend away from the top surface 200 of the head 20 to engage the guiding groove 127 (Figure 3B ) engages to guide the sliding movement of the sliding locking member 120. Additionally, a sliding locking spring 140 may be disposed in a spring groove 126 on the bottom side of the sliding locking member 120( Figure 3B ), and may be located between the fixed pin 130 and the end of the spring groove 126 to urge the sliding locking member 120 to the engaged position.

[0037] After describing the individual components of the wrench 10, there will now be described Figures 3A - 3C , which focuses mainly on aspects of the sliding locking member 120 and the fixed pin 130. In this regard, referring to Figure 3A , a perspective top view of the sliding locking member 120 according to some exemplary embodiments is provided. According to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding locking member 120 is formed as a substantially planar member that includes a button opening 121, a fixed pin opening 124, and a thumb protrusion 123.

[0038] According to some exemplary embodiments, the button opening 121 may be positioned such that the release button 100 can pass through the button opening 121. As described further below, the edge of the button opening 121 may be configured to engage with the release button 100 under the locking lip 101 of the release button 100 to hold the release button 100 in the locked position. However, through the sliding movement of the sliding locking member 120, the edge of the button opening 121 may disengage from the locking lip 101 and allow the release button 100 to move through the button opening 121 into the unlocked position. According to some exemplary embodiments, the edge of the button opening 121 may have a bevel 122 to facilitate sliding engagement with the locking lip 101 of the release button 100 (which may also have a bevel). Thus, according to some exemplary embodiments, the area of the button opening 121 may be larger than the area of the release button 100 to allow the release button 100 to pass through the button opening 121 when properly aligned. According to some exemplary embodiments, the button opening 121 may be circular in shape. According to some exemplary embodiments, the button opening 121 may be oval or other elongated shape. Additionally, according to some exemplary embodiments, the button opening 121 may be closed such that the entire edge of the button opening 121 is disposed inside the sliding locking member 120 and does not extend to the outer edge of the sliding locking member 120.

[0039] The size of the retaining pin opening 124 can also be set to facilitate the ability of the sliding locking member 120 to slide relative to the head 20 and the release button 100. In this regard, the retaining pin opening 124 can be elongated along the direction of the sliding movement of the sliding locking member 120 such that the retaining pin opening 124 has first and second opposite ends. Thus, the shape of the retaining pin opening 124 can allow the sliding locking member 120 to slide relative to the retaining pin 130 fixed to the head 20 of the wrench 10. According to some exemplary embodiments, the edges of the retaining pin opening 124 can include chamfers 125.

[0040] According to some exemplary embodiments, the thumb protrusion 123 can be provided at a position in front of the button opening 121. The thumb protrusion 123 can be a raised area, which can be elongated to serve as a gripping portion for the user's thumb. In this regard, as described further below, the thumb protrusion 123 can be an interface between the user and the sliding locking member 120 to provide means for resisting the pushing of the sliding locking spring 140 to slide the sliding locking member 120 to, for example, a disengaged position. According to some exemplary embodiments, the thumb protrusion 123 can be located near the button opening 121 and thus near the release button 100 to allow the user to perform the two-step operation of sliding the sliding locking member 120 and pressing the release button 100 with the same thumb.

[0041] Figure 3B The bottom side of the sliding locking member 120 is shown. The bottom side of the sliding locking member 120 can include features such as a spring slot 126 and a guide slot 127. In this regard, the spring slot 126 can be an elongated cavity configured to receive the sliding locking spring 140. According to some exemplary embodiments, the spring slot 126 can be aligned with the retaining pin opening 124 such that the retaining pin opening 124 leads to the spring slot 126. In this regard, when assembled, the retaining pin 130 can pass through the retaining pin opening 124 and into the spring slot 126 to allow the sliding locking spring 140 to directly engage the retaining pin 130 at one end of the sliding locking spring 140 and engage the wall of the spring slot 126 at the other end of the sliding locking spring 140. In this regard, since the retaining pin 130 is fixed in place relative to the head 20, the sliding locking spring 130 can use the retaining pin 130 as a lever to push the sliding locking member 120 to the engaged position.

[0042] Additionally, the guide slot 127 can also be an elongated cavity in the bottom surface of the sliding locking member 120. As described above, the size and position of the guide slot 127 can be set to engage with the guide protrusion 132 provided on the top surface 200 of the brush head 20. The engagement between the guide protrusion 132 and the guide slot 127 can be used to limit the movement of the sliding locking member 120 to a linear slide along the length of the guide slot 127 based on the shape of the guide slot 127.

[0043] Additionally, according to some exemplary embodiments, the wrench 10 may further include a housing 35. The housing 35 may be configured to rest on the top surface 200 of the head 20 or inserted into the pin hole 131 to rest on a flange within the pin hole 131, and the housing 35 may be configured to receive the fixing pin 130. In this regard, the fixing pin 130 may pass through a passage of the housing 35 to engage with a thread in, for example, the pin hole 131. According to some exemplary embodiments, the housing 35 may operate as a stop or a support to control the depth of the fixing pin 130 and prevent over-tightening of the fixing pin 130, which may limit or even prevent the sliding movement of the sliding locking member 120. The housing 35 may rest on the top surface 200 of the head 20 or a flange within the pin hole 131, and the head 133 of the fixing pin 103 may be tightened against the housing 35 (instead of the sliding locking member 120), and the housing 35 may be sized accordingly.

[0044] Furthermore, according to some exemplary embodiments, the housing 35 may include an upper head portion 39 that is wider than the lower body portion 40. According to some exemplary embodiments, the housing 35 may be mounted by the sliding locking member 120 such that the upper head portion 39 is positioned above the inclined surface 125 or a similarly positioned flange that is located within the fixing pin opening 124 (as further described below with reference to Figure 3A and 3B ). Accordingly, the upper head portion may include a lower outer flange or a flange of the similarly positioned fixing pin opening 124 that may engage with the inclined surface 125. Since the lower body portion 40 of the housing 35 may rest on the rear side of the head 20 or a flange within the pin hole 131, the fixing pin 130 may be tightened into the passage of the housing 35 and against an inner flange within the passage of the housing 35, where the head 133 is positioned on the inner flange in the upper head portion 39 of the passage in the housing 35. As the fixing pin 130 is tightened, the sliding locking member 120 may be held on the top surface 200 of the head 20 by the upper head portion of the housing 35, which in turn is held in place by the fixing pin 130. Since the housing 35 is prevented from being fastened to the sliding locking member 120, the sliding locking member 120 may freely slide relative to the housing 35 over the top surface 200 of the head 20, but cannot move away from the top surface 200 with a component of motion in a direction perpendicular to the top surface 200. In addition to serving as a stop or a support for the fixing pin 130, the embodiment of the housing 35 may also provide increased rigidity and support to the fixing pin 130 to limit or avoid bending or displacement of the fixing pin 130 into an improper engagement with the sliding locking member 120 when the wrench 10 is subjected to an impact (e.g., when dropped from a height).

[0045] Figure 3CAn exemplary fixing pin 130 is shown. As shown, the fixing pin 130 may include a head 133, a shank 136, and threads 137. The size of the threads 137 may be set to engage corresponding threads in the pin hole 131 of the head 20. According to some exemplary embodiments, the shank 136 may be a smooth portion of the fixing pin 130, which may be configured to engage with the sliding locking spring 140, as described herein. The head 133 may be wider than the shank 136 to allow the head 133 to operate as a stop to fix the sliding locking member 120 to the head 20 of the wrench 10. In this regard, the head 133 may have a size greater than the width of the fixing pin opening 124 to prevent the head 133 from passing through the fixing pin opening 124, for example. In this regard, in order to allow the head 133 to sit flush on top of the sliding locking member 120 and still operate as a stop, the head 133 may have a bevel 135, which may correspond to the bevel 125 on the edge of the fixing pin opening 124. Additionally, the head 133 may include a driver 134, which facilitates engagement with a tool for tightening or loosening the fixing pin 130 in the pin hole 131.

[0046] After the physical and functional characteristics of the various components of the wrench 10 have been described, a description of the operation of these components will now be provided. In this regard, Figures 4A - 4D Shows the configuration of the various components of the wrench 10 when the release button 100 is in the locked position and the sliding locking member 120 is in the engaged position. Referring to Figure 4A and 4B , it can be seen that the sliding locking member 120 has slid forward (away from the handle 15) to the foremost position, which may be the engaged position. In this regard, as described above, with the sliding locking member 120 in the engaged position, the release button 100 is prevented from moving out of the locked position. In Figure 4A it can be seen that the rear edge of the button opening 121 engages with the release button 100, while there is a gap between the front edge of the button opening 121 and the release button 100. As Figure 4B shown, since the release button 100 is in the locked position, the locking member 115 extends out of the opening of the drive shank 110.

[0047] Now referring to Figure 4C , an enlarged view of the head 20 is provided with the sliding locking member 120 in the engaged position and the release button 100 in the unlocked position. In this regard, the dashed circle 204 represents the position of the edge of the button opening 121, which is blocked by the locking lip 101 of the release button 100. As shown, since the locking lip 101 extends away from the center of the release button 100 to form a void, the edge of the button opening 121 can slide under the locking lip 101 into the void, thereby blocking the release button 100 from moving to the unlocked position.

[0048] In addition, as Figure 4C shown, since the sliding locking member 120 is in the engaged position, the fixed pin opening 124 also slides forward. In this way, the fixed pin 130 is positioned against the rear edge of the fixed pin opening 124. In addition, through the fixed pin opening 124 in a position engaged with the fixed pin 130, the sliding locking spring 140 can be seen and the sliding locking member 120 is pushed forward to the engaged position.

[0049] Now refer to Figure 4D , which shows a cross-sectional view taken along A-A of selected components of the wrench 10 in Figure 4C , where the sliding locking member 120 is in the engaged position. In this regard, Figure 4D describe the positioning of the sliding locking member 120, the release button 100, the post 102, and the locking member 115 relative to the gear 30 and the drive shank 110 when the sliding locking member 120 is in the engaged position. The release button 100, the post 102, and the locking member 115 can be components of the lockable stopper 116.

[0050] The sliding locking member 120 is shown having a top surface that slides under the locking lip 101 (which may have a bevel 103) of the release button 100. In this way, at this position, the engagement between the locking lip 101 and the edge of the button opening 121 of the sliding locking member 120 prevents the release button 100 from being depressed and moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. In addition, due to the engagement between the release button spring 104 between the spring lip 105 from which the post 102 extends and the flange within the drive shank cavity 111, the force provided by the release button spring 104 pushes the release button 100 into the locked position.

[0051] When the release button 100 is in the locked position, the post 102 is positioned such that the shallow edge 104 of the post 102 is aligned with the locking member opening 112. In this way, due to the engagement or positioning with the shallow edge 104 of the post 102, the locking member 115, which can be in the form of a spherical bearing, can be forced to protrude from the locking member opening 112. As described above, the locking member opening 112 can be smaller than the locking member 115, so the locking member 115 can extend out but may not completely pass through the locking member opening 112.

[0052] Now refer to Figures 5A to 5E , and the transition of the sliding locking member 120 being in the disengaged position and the release button 100 being in the unlocked position will be described with reference to various components of the wrench 10. In this regard, Figure 5A a top view is provided, Figure 5BA side view of the wrench 10 is provided after the sliding locking member 120 has slid backward (toward the handle) in the direction 201, which may be a linear direction, to the disengaged position. The sliding movement of the sliding locking member 120 may be restricted to linear sliding movement by, for example, the shape of the fixed pin opening 124 and the guide slot 127. As Figure 5A shown, the fixed pin opening 124 has now moved to a position where the fixed pin 130 engages with the front end of the fixed pin opening 124. According to some exemplary embodiments, the engagement between the front end of the fixed pin opening 124 and the fixed pin 130 may act as a stop to prevent further movement of the sliding locking member 120 in the backward direction. In the case where the sliding locking member 120 is in the disengaged position, the button opening 121 is aligned with the release button 100 such that the edge of the button opening 121 does not engage with the locking lip 101 of the release button 100.

[0053] Now referring to Figure 5C , the sliding locking member 120 has slid in the direction 201, and now the release button 100 has been pressed and moved in the direction 202, which may be a linear direction. According to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding movement of the sliding locking member 120 in the direction 201 may be perpendicular to the movement of the release button 100 in the direction 202. Additionally, the sliding movement of the sliding locking member 120 may be a linear movement, and the movement of the release button 100 due to being pressed into the top surface 200 of the head 20 may also be a linear movement. Since the release button 100 has been pressed and moved to the unlocked position, the locking stopper 116 including the locking member 115 may allow the locking member 115 to move out of the extended position to allow the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank 110.

[0054] Figure 5D An enlarged top view of the head 20 is provided, where the sliding locking member 120 is in the disengaged position and the release button 100 is in the unlocked position. In this regard, as described above, it can be seen that the fixed pin opening 124 has shifted backward, and the fixed pin 130 is now disposed in the forward position within the fixed pin opening 124 and engages with the front edge of the fixed pin opening 124. In this way, the engagement between the fixed pin 130 and the front edge of the fixed pin opening 124 may operate as a stop to prevent further movement of the sliding locking member 120 in the backward direction. Additionally, as Figure 5D shown, the release button 100 is aligned with the button opening 121. In this way, the edge of the button opening 121 no longer engages with the locking lip 101 of the release button 100. Accordingly, the release button 100 can move (i.e., be pressed down) without being obstructed by the sliding locking member 120.

[0055] Now referring to Figure 5E shows along Figure 5DCross-sectional view of the selection member of wrench 10 taken along line B-B, where the sliding locking member 120 is in the disengaged position and the release button 100 is in the unlocked position. In this regard, Figure 5E Describe the positioning of the sliding locking member 120, release button 100, post 102, and locking member 115 relative to the gear 30 and drive shank 110 when the sliding locking member 120 is in the disengaged position and the release button 100 is in the unlocked position.

[0056] The sliding locking member 120 is shown with its top surface sliding backward such that the locking lip 101 of the release button 100 no longer engages with the locking lip 101 and does not block the release button 100 from being depressed and moved to the unlocked position. Thus, in this position, the button opening 121 and the release button 100 are aligned, and when depressed, at least a portion of the release button 100 can pass through the button opening 121 into the drive shank cavity 111. Additionally, the release button spring 104 can be compressed within the drive shank cavity 111 between the spring lip 105 and the flange.

[0057] When the release button 100 is in the unlocked position, the post 102 is positioned such that the deep edge 103 of the post 102 is aligned with the locking member opening 112. This allows the locking member 115, which can be in the form of a spherical bearing, to move from the extended position to the retracted position, where, for example, the locking member 115 is fully or substantially disposed within the drive shank cavity 111 and no longer extends through the locking member opening 112. Thus, any workpiece that was locked in place by engaging with the locking member 115 is no longer engaged with the locking member 115 and can be removed or separated from the drive shank 110.

[0058] Figures 6A to 6C An illustration of a user operating wrench 10 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments is provided. In this regard, refer to Figure 6A , the user's thumb 203 attempts to push or press the release button 100 with the sliding locking member 120 in the engaged position in an attempt to unlock the sleeve 190 from the drive shank 110. Since the sliding locking member 120 engages with the release button 100, the release button 100 cannot be moved to the unlocked position, and thus the sleeve 190 remains locked to the wrench 10.

[0059] Now refer to Figure 6B, the user's thumb 203 has engaged the thumb projection 123, and the user's thumb has pulled the sliding lock member 120 rearwardly towards the handle 15 in the direction 201. In this way, due to a stop formed, for example, by the fixing pin opening 124 and the fixing pin 130, the sliding lock member 120 can be prevented from sliding further rearwardly, and the release button 100 can be aligned with the button opening 121. Since the release button 100 has not been depressed yet, the lockable stopper 116 still operates to lock the sleeve 190 to the drive shank 110.

[0060] Now referring to Figure 6C , when the sliding lock member 120 is held in the disengaged position (against the urging of the sliding lock spring 140), the user's thumb 203 now depresses the release button 100, thereby moving the release button 100 from the locked position to the unlocked position. In this way, the lockable stopper 116 allows the sleeve 190 to disengage from the drive shank 110, since, for example, the locking member 115 retracts into the drive shank cavity 111 and disengages from the sleeve 190.

[0061] According to some exemplary embodiments, a ratchet wrench is provided. The ratchet wrench can include a head having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a drive shank extending from the bottom surface of the head. In this regard, the drive shank can be shaped to engage a workpiece. The ratchet wrench can further include a ratchet mechanism disposed within a head cavity of the head and operatively coupled to the drive shank. Additionally, the ratchet mechanism can be configured to allow the drive shank to rotate relative to the head in a ratchet rotation direction and prevent the drive shank from rotating relative to the head in a drive rotation direction. The ratchet wrench can further include a locking stopper operatively coupled to the drive shank, and a release button disposed on the top surface of the head and configured to control the operation of the locking stopper. The release button can be moved in a first direction between a locked position and an unlocked position, in the locked position, the locking stopper locks the workpiece to the drive shank, and in the unlocked position, the stopper allows the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank. The ratchet wrench can further include a sliding lock member configured to slide along a second direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In this regard, the second direction can be perpendicular to the first direction. Additionally, in the engaged position, the sliding lock member can engage the release button to prevent the release button from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position in the first direction, and in the disengaged position, the sliding lock member can disengage from the release button to allow the release button to move in the first direction to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0062] Additionally, the ratchet wrench may further include a release button spring configured to push the release button to the locked position, and a sliding lock spring configured to push the sliding lock member to the engaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the release button may include a locking lip, and when the sliding lock member is in the engaged position, the sliding lock member may be positioned below the locking lip of the release button. Additionally or alternatively, the locking lip may include a beveled edge. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding lock member may include a button opening that aligns with the release button when the sliding lock member is in the disengaged position, such that when the sliding lock member is in the disengaged position and the release button is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, a portion of the release button moves through the button opening of the sliding lock member. Additionally or alternatively, the sliding lock member may include a fixed pin opening and a guide slot. In this regard, a fixed pin may pass through the fixed pin opening in the sliding lock member and may be coupled to the top surface of the head. Further, the size of the fixed pin opening may be set to allow the sliding lock member to slide relative to the fixed pin. The sliding lock member may include a guide protrusion extending from the top surface of the head. The guide protrusion may be configured to extend into the guide slot of the sliding lock member to guide the movement of the sliding lock member along a second direction. Additionally or alternatively, the fixed pin opening may be an elongated opening having a first end and a second end. Further, the engagement between the fixed pin and the first end serves as a stopper for the sliding lock member in the disengaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding lock member may include a spring slot aligned with the fixed pin, and the ratchet wrench may further include a sliding lock spring disposed within the spring slot such that an end of the sliding lock spring engages the fixed pin. In this regard, the sliding lock spring may be configured to push the sliding lock member to the engaged position by applying a force on the fixed pin. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding lock member may include a thumb protrusion configured to engage with a user's thumb to facilitate sliding the sliding lock member from the engaged position to the disengaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the locking stopper may include a post operably coupled to the release button such that the post moves along a first direction together with the release button, and the post may be disposed within a driver shank cavity in the driver shank. The locking stopper may further include a locking member disposed within the driver shank cavity and operably coupled to the post such that movement of the post causes the locking member to move between an extended position and a retracted position, in the extended position, a portion of the locking member extends out of an opening in the driver shank to lock the workpiece to the driver shank, and in the retracted position, allows the workpiece to be removed from the driver shank.

[0063] According to some exemplary embodiments, a wrench is provided. The wrench may include a head having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a drive shank extending from the bottom surface of the head. In this regard, the drive shank may be shaped to engage a workpiece. The wrench may further include a locking stopper operatively coupled to the drive shank, and a release button disposed on the top surface of the head and configured to control the operation of the locking stopper. The release button may move in a first linear direction between a locked position and an unlocked position, in the locked position, the locking stopper locks the workpiece to the drive shank, and in the unlocked position, the stopper allows the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank. The wrench may further include a sliding locking member configured to slide along a second linear direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In this regard, in the engaged position, the sliding locking member may engage the release button to prevent the release button from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position in the first linear direction, and in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member may disengage from the release button to allow the release button to move in the first linear direction to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the wrench may include a release button spring configured to push the release button to the locked position, and a sliding lock spring configured to push the sliding lock member to the engaged position. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the release button includes a locking lip, and when the sliding lock member is in the engaged position, the sliding lock member is positioned below the locking lip of the release button. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding lock member may include a button opening that aligns with the release button when the sliding lock member is in the disengaged position, such that when the sliding lock member is in the disengaged position and the release button is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position, a portion of the release button moves through the button opening of the sliding lock member. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sliding lock member may include a fixed pin opening and a guide slot. The wrench may further include a fixed pin that passes through the fixed pin opening in the sliding lock member and is coupled to the top surface of the head. The size of the fixed pin opening may be set to allow the sliding lock member to slide relative to the fixed pin. Additionally, the wrench may include a guide protrusion extending from the top surface of the head, and the guide protrusion may be configured to extend into the guide slot of the sliding lock member to guide the movement of the sliding lock member along a second linear direction. Additionally or alternatively, according to some exemplary embodiments, the fixed pin opening may be an elongated opening having a first end and a second end, and the engagement between the fixed pin and the first end serves as a stop for the sliding lock member in the disengaged position. Additionally or alternatively, the sliding lock member may be a spring slot aligned with the fixed pin. In this regard, the wrench further includes a sliding lock spring disposed within the spring slot such that an end of the sliding lock spring engages the fixed pin, and the sliding lock spring is configured to push the sliding lock member to the engaged position by applying a force on the fixed pin.

[0065] Benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the related drawings, those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will envision many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing description and the associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions can be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above are also contemplated as being set forth in some of the appended claims. Where advantages, benefits, or solutions to problems are described herein, it should be understood that these advantages, benefits, and / or solutions may apply to some exemplary embodiments but not necessarily to all exemplary embodiments. Accordingly, any advantages, benefits, or solutions described herein should not be considered critical, required, or essential to all embodiments or to the embodiments claimed herein. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A ratchet wrench, comprising: A head including a top surface and a bottom surface; A drive shank extending from the bottom surface of the head, the drive shank being shaped to engage a workpiece; A ratchet mechanism disposed within a head cavity of the head and operatively coupled to the drive shank, the ratchet mechanism being configured to allow the drive shank to rotate relative to the head in a ratchet rotation direction and to prevent the drive shank from rotating relative to the head in a drive rotation direction; A locking stopper operatively coupled to the drive shank; A release button disposed on the top surface of the head and configured to control the operation of the locking stopper, the release button being movable along a first direction between a locked position and an unlocked position, in the locked position, the locking stopper locks the workpiece to the drive shank, in the unlocked position, the stopper allows the workpiece to be removed from the drive shank; And A sliding locking member configured to slide along a second direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction; Wherein, in the engaged position, the sliding locking member engages with the release button to prevent the release button from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position in the first direction; and Wherein, in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member disengages from the release button to allow the release button to move along the first direction to move from the locked position to the unlocked position, Wherein the sliding locking member includes a fixed pin opening and a guide slot; and Wherein the ratchet wrench further includes: A fixed pin passing through the fixed pin opening in the sliding locking member and coupled to the top surface of the head, the size of the fixed pin opening being set to allow the sliding locking member to slide relative to the fixed pin; A guide protrusion extending from the top surface of the head, the guide protrusion being configured to extend into the guide slot of the sliding locking member to guide the movement of the sliding locking member along the second direction.

2. The ratchet wrench according to claim 1, further comprising: A release button spring configured to push the release button to the locked position; And A sliding locking spring configured to push the sliding locking member to the engaged position.

3. The ratchet wrench according to claim 1, wherein the release button includes a locking lip; and Among them, When the sliding locking member is in the engaged position, the sliding locking member is located below the locking lip of the release button.

4. The ratchet wrench according to claim 3, wherein the locking lip includes an inclined edge.

5. The ratchet wrench according to claim 3, wherein the sliding locking member includes a button opening, the button opening being aligned with the release button when the sliding locking member is in the disengaged position, such that when the sliding locking member is in the disengaged position and the release button moves from the locked position to the unlocked position, a portion of the release button moves through the button opening of the sliding locking member.

6. The ratchet wrench according to claim 1, wherein the fixed pin opening is an elongated opening having a first end and a second end; and wherein, The engagement between the fixed pin and the first end serves as a stopper for the sliding locking member in the disengaged position.

7. The ratchet wrench according to claim 1, wherein the sliding locking member includes a spring groove aligned with the fixed pin; and Among them, The ratchet wrench further includes a sliding locking spring disposed within the spring groove such that an end of the sliding locking spring engages the fixed pin; wherein the sliding locking spring is configured to push the sliding locking member to the engaged position by applying a force on the fixed pin.

8. The ratchet wrench according to claim 1, wherein the sliding locking member includes a thumb protrusion configured to be engageable with a user's thumb to facilitate sliding of the sliding locking member from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

9. The ratchet wrench according to claim 1, wherein the locking stopper includes: a post operably coupled to the release button such that the post moves in the first direction together with the release button, the post being disposed within a driver shank cavity in the driver shank; a locking member disposed within the driver shank cavity and operably coupled to the post such that movement of the post causes the locking member to move between an extended position and a retracted position, in the extended position, a portion of the locking member extends out of an opening in the driver shank to lock the workpiece to the driver shank, the retracted position allowing removal of the workpiece from the driver shank.

10. A wrench, comprising: a head including a top surface and a bottom surface; a driver shank extending from the bottom surface of the head, the driver shank being shaped to engage a workpiece; a locking stopper operably coupled to the driver shank; a release button disposed on the top surface of the head and configured to control the operation of the locking stopper, the release button being movable along a first linear direction between a locked position and an unlocked position, in the locked position, the locking stopper locks the workpiece to the driver shank, in the unlocked position, the stopper allows removal of the workpiece from the driver shank; and a sliding locking member configured to slide along a second linear direction between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the sliding locking member including a button opening positioned such that the release button can pass through the button opening; wherein, in the engaged position, the sliding locking member engages the release button to prevent the release button from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position in the first linear direction; and wherein, in the disengaged position, the sliding locking member disengages from the release button to allow movement of the release button in the first linear direction to move from the locked position to the unlocked position, wherein the sliding locking member includes a thumb protrusion which is an elongated raised area to serve as a gripping portion for a user's thumb. The thumb protrusion is located near the button opening and the release button, allowing the user to perform two-step operations of sliding the sliding locking member and pressing the release button with the same thumb.

11. The wrench according to claim 10, further comprising: A release button spring configured to push the release button to the locked position; And A sliding locking spring configured to push the sliding locking member to the engaged position.

12. The wrench according to claim 10, wherein the release button includes a locking lip; and Among them, When the sliding locking member is in the engaged position, the sliding locking member is located below the locking lip of the release button.

13. The wrench according to claim 12, wherein the sliding locking member includes a button opening that aligns with the release button when the sliding locking member is in the disengaged position, such that when the sliding locking member is in the disengaged position and the release button moves from the locked position to the unlocked position, a portion of the release button moves through the button opening of the sliding locking member.

14. The wrench according to claim 10, wherein the sliding locking member includes a fixed pin opening and a guiding groove; And Wherein, The wrench further comprises: A fixed pin that passes through the fixed pin opening in the sliding locking member and is coupled to the top surface of the head, the size of the fixed pin opening being set to allow the sliding locking member to slide relative to the fixed pin; A guide protrusion that extends from the top surface of the head, the guide protrusion being configured to extend into the guide slot of the sliding locking member to guide the movement of the sliding locking member along the second linear direction.

15. The wrench according to claim 10, wherein the fixed pin opening is an elongated opening having a first end and a second end; and wherein, The engagement between the fixed pin and the first end serves as a stop for the sliding locking member in the disengaged position.

16. The wrench according to claim 10, wherein the sliding locking member includes a spring groove aligned with the fixed pin; and Among them, The wrench further includes a sliding locking spring disposed within the spring groove such that an end of the sliding locking spring engages the fixed pin; Wherein, the sliding locking spring is configured to push the sliding locking member to the engaged position by applying a force on the fixed pin.

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